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Styling for Sale

by Stephanie Williams

How you prepare your home for sale can make a significant difference to your eventual sale price.

When you’re selling a property, first impressions are everything. From the listing to the open for inspection, the way you present your property can reap solid financial rewards.

When Ray White Killcare Peninsula Principal, Kerrie Ryan, who operates just north of Sydney, took on 13 Manly View Road, Killcare, it had already been on the market with another agent for six months. “We listed the property, had it styled and it sold within a few weeks. Superior presentation often results in a quicker sale at a premium price,” Kerry shares, “and the results after hiring a property stylist always make it worthwhile.” And Kerrie’s hot local tip? “We always recommend Julie and Hilary at Interior Makeovers, they do an amazing job.”

Image: Bowerbird

According to Ercan Ersan, Director at Ray White Erskineville, preparation is the key. “Preparing your home and presenting it at its best is one of the most important parts of the sales process.” Ercan shares, “We recently sold 32 London Street, Enmore for $1,391,000. It had sold two years earlier for $1,025,000 and the owners spent $10,000 preparing it for sale, including styling. I’m confident that without the styling it would’ve sold closer to $1,300,000.”

Hiring a professional stylist like Lauren Lewis, creative director of Bowerbird, a property styling studio in Sydney, can really increase your returns. If you’re keen to style your property yourself, Lauren says to start with a blank canvas. “Review the floor and wall surfaces. If your floors are looking dull or damaged, replace them. Paint the walls a neutral colour like white or beige to allow buyers to focus on the overall space.”

Image: Bowerbird

Hiring professional cleaners, particularly for windows inside and out, will also reap rewards. And don’t forget the exterior. “A weed-free garden, some on-trend pot plants, a fresh coat of paint to the front door and fences, and even some brand spanking new house numbers can make the world of difference,” Lauren suggests.